Part of the New Islington development in Ancoats, Manchester, Bryant Homes’ The Botanic promises to bring environmental harmony to contemporary, urban living. UK-native plants, mature trees and grass fill the garden enclave, enclosed and protected by the twin apartment blocks to which they bring an oasis of nature amid city living. Located just east of Manchester city centre, The Botanic forms part of New Islington; Manchester’s Millennium Community, an innovative complex spearheaded by the partnership of national regeneration agency English Partnerships, Urban Splash and New East Manchester Ltd together with appointed social landlord, Manchester Methodist Housing Association.

The 30 acre site is being radically transformed to a strategic and ambitious vision created by Will Alsop.  A new canal and water park, over 1700 new homes, office space, a school, a health clinic, shops, bars and restaurants are planned to be created, using the worlds best architecture.

But what can The Botanic offer the discerning urban dweller, besides a certain natural tranquillity? Floor to ceiling dual-aspect windows flood the largely duplex apartments with natural light and provide an opportunity for both a garden and a city view. Its 200 apartments will be of smart interior, with contemporary fixtures and fittings demonstrating the usual high finish of a Bryant home. Green in more ways than one, the project will bring a new style of living to Manchester, with recycling facilities, a water collection system and an environmentally-conscious construction ethic.

With its Manchester M4 postcode, The Botanic has all the city has to offer on its doorstep, but whilst still offering a retreat from city living. Apartments are currently available from 1-bedroom to luxury 3-bed duplexes measuring nearly 1,000 sq.ft. Prices start at £132,950.

For more information on The Botanic, visit Bryant Homes online at www.bryant.co.uk/northwest/thebotanic

The Northern Quarter is fast becoming one of Manchester's most desirable areas for both shoppers and residents alike, and Stonehurst Estates is making good on this increasingly up-and-coming area with the Light House - a beautiful, Conran-designed complex offering a total of 106 apartments at a finished value of £32m.

The Light House, a sleek 20-storey steel and glass building, is to be the realisation of a vision of urban dwelling in Manchester. This development will see the compatible fusion of contemporary new-build alongside classic regeneration as the striking tower rises above restored Edwardian warehouses.

Situated opposite world-renowned fashion emporium, Afflecks Palace, and to rise above the central hub that is Piccadilly Gardens with balcony views across the city, Light House promises to offer guaranteed famous Conran-style with city centre convenience. There is still some availability on the property, which is offered from around £135,000 rising to over £500,000 for an 1,800 sq. ft duplex penthouse apartment. Secure underground parking ia available and buyers on the top five floors also get sole, exclusive use of a 2,000 sq. ft. roof garden on the 15th floor.

Simon Briggs, managing director of Stonehurst Estates, said: "The Light House is setting new standards in the Northern Quarter for imaginative architecture and quality of design. We are interested in adding to, and enhancing, Manchester's residential mix. It's an exciting city to be working in and we want to make The Light House a special place in which to live."

Stephen Hogg of selling agent King Sturge said: "The Light House is one of the most significant and exciting schemes to come on to the market in Manchester for some time. There is simply nothing like it in such a fantastic location."

For further details visit Light House at www.lighthousemanchester.co.uk